Deputy Defence Minister, Ernest Brogya Gyenfi, has dismissed reports alleging that military lands have been allocated to businessman Ibrahim Mahama for private development, describing the claims as false and malicious.
In a statement issued in response to circulating reports, Mr Gyenfi said no military property had been handed over to the Chief Executive Officer of Dzata Group Holding Limited.
“I wish to firmly dismiss and ignore any false and malicious reports suggesting that military lands have been given to the President’s brother to develop. That story is completely untrue.”
Deputy Defence Minister, Ernest Brogya Gyenfi
The Deputy Defence Minister’s comments come amid public discussion surrounding a major housing support initiative involving the Ghana Armed Forces and Ibrahim Mahama.
Military Launches Housing Replacement Project
According to Mr Gyenfi, the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a self-help housing project aimed at replacing old and deteriorating colonial-era buildings located within Burma Camp in Accra.
He explained that many of the existing structures have become dilapidated over the years and require urgent redevelopment to improve living conditions for military personnel and their families.
The project forms part of broader efforts by the Armed Forces to modernise accommodation facilities and improve welfare conditions for officers and soldiers serving the country.
Military officials have repeatedly highlighted housing deficits and ageing infrastructure within some military barracks across Ghana as major challenges affecting personnel welfare.
Ibrahim Mahama Donates GH¢120 Million
Mr Gyenfi disclosed that businessman Ibrahim Mahama had supported the initiative through a major financial contribution toward the housing redevelopment programme.
“In support of this noble initiative, Mr Ibrahim Mahama, CEO of Dzata Group Holding Limited, has generously donated GH¢120 million for 10 blocks of 16 units each as part of the replacement programme”.
Deputy Defence Minister, Ernest Brogya Gyenfi
The contribution is expected to support the development of modern residential units intended to replace older structures currently in use within Burma Camp. Government officials say the project will improve accommodation standards for military personnel while enhancing overall welfare within the Armed Forces.
Fundraising Event Held at Military Academy
Mr Gyenfi further disclosed that a fundraising luncheon for the project was organised last Saturday at the Ghana Military Academy. The event, which was chaired by business magnate Sir Sam Jonah, brought together members of Corporate Ghana, military partners, and other stakeholders to support the housing initiative.
He added that several companies and individuals made donations and pledges during the event to support the Armed Forces’ housing redevelopment efforts. The project is expected to rely partly on partnerships and contributions from the private sector in addition to internal military support mechanisms.
Mr Gyenfi commended Ibrahim Mahama for what he described as an extraordinary act of patriotism and generosity toward the Ghana Armed Forces. According to him, the businessman’s contribution would have a direct impact on the welfare and living conditions of military personnel.
Mr Gyenfi also offered prayers and well wishes for Ibrahim Mahama, expressing hope for continued success in his business and philanthropic activities.
Clarification Amid Public Speculation
The Deputy Defence Minister’s statement appears intended to address growing public speculation surrounding Ibrahim Mahama’s involvement in the military housing project.
The businessman, who is the brother of President John Dramani Mahama, has in recent years been involved in several private sector initiatives and philanthropic projects across Ghana.
However, Mr Gyenfi insisted that claims linking the donation to any transfer or allocation of military lands are entirely inaccurate. The clarification comes at a time when public scrutiny over state lands, public procurement, and government-related projects remains high.
The Deputy Defence Minister urged the public to disregard misinformation surrounding the issue. The housing replacement initiative reflects broader concerns about accommodation conditions within sections of Ghana’s security services.
Military authorities have often stressed the need for improved barracks infrastructure, modern residential facilities, and enhanced welfare support for personnel.
The redevelopment project at Burma Camp is expected to contribute toward addressing some of these longstanding concerns while improving living standards for service members.
Government officials maintain that partnerships between the public and private sectors can play an important role in supporting national institutions and improving public infrastructure.
The latest clarification by the Defence Ministry seeks to separate philanthropic support for military welfare projects from claims of private acquisition of state lands.
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